Mowing with technology that leaves room for nature
The use of forage-harvesting robots is changing the way grassland is managed. This creates opportunities for more efficient farm operations, while also directly affecting the living environment of meadow birds. This test and validation explored how mowing with a forage-harvesting robot can be organised in such a way that meadow birds retain sufficient rest, food and shelter to complete their breeding cycle. By combining ecological knowledge with practical experience, insights are gained into how robotisation can contribute to more sustainable grassland management.
Broad research question
Can robotic mowing be compatible with successful breeding
Mowing robots are narrower and move more slowly through grassland than traditional mowing machines. The central question is whether and how the use of mowing machinery can be organised so that meadow birds are able to complete their full breeding and rearing cycle. In particular, the mowing strategy and route planning play a crucial role.
Approach
Linking ecological knowledge with practical experience
The research is based on a combination of literature review and interviews with dairy farmers and meadow bird conservationists. These sources were used to examine the breeding behaviour of different meadow bird species, their requirements for suitable habitats, and the impact of mowing practices. These insights were translated into guiding principles for the deployment and route planning of a forage-harvesting robot in practice.
Objective
Gaining insight into conditions for nature-friendly route planning
Within the test and validation trajectory, the aim was to develop a shared understanding of the requirements that robot path planning must meet in order to have a potentially positive effect on meadow birds. The objective is to organise mowing practices in a way that limits disturbance while creating opportunities for ecological improvement.
Results and reflection
Practical lessons for mowing with consideration for meadow birds
The results show that a carefully planned use of a forage-harvesting robot can create opportunities to better accommodate meadow birds, provided that mowing practices are deliberately designed.
Successes:
The study highlights the importance of accurately mapping nests, applying mosaic or phased mowing strategies, and avoiding night-time mowing in areas where meadow birds are present. These measures contribute to greater tranquillity, improved shelter, and a continuous availability of food.
Lessons learned:
At the same time, the findings show that monitoring and up-to-date field knowledge remain essential. Not all nests are always detected, and the long-term ecological effects require further research. Additional development is also needed to enable route planning to adapt flexibly to new observations in the field.